Chinese romantic comedy Love You Forever which was released on Qixi Festival, China’s Valentine’s Day, had a box office of RMB277 million ($38.3 million) on its release day. This means the film has the record for highest single day box office worldwide in 2020.
TikTok CEO Resigns
Former Disney executive Kevin Mayer has resigned as TikTok CEO only three months after taking on the post as a result of the ongoing struggle between the US and TikTok.
The Eight Hundred and Its Astonishing Numbers
After being delayed for a year, Guan Hu’s war epic The Eight Hundred is set to be released in China on 21st August and has already reached a presale of RMB171.5 million ($24.8 million). Furthermore, during its Monday preview, its box office was RMB50 million ($7.24 million).
New Tom Hanks Film To be Released in China
A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood starring Tom Hanks will be released theatrically in China on 18th September. The film received investment from Tencent Pictures early last year and Tencent originally intended for it to be released domestically in February.
Harry Potter Breaking New Records
The 4K 3D restoration of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was re-released on 14th August in China and has - as of 18th August - reached a box office of RMB 117 million (approx $16.9 million), becoming the highest weekend earner since cinemas reopened.
Tencent and iQiyi’s Future in Taiwan
It is being reported that Taiwan will be banning the Chinese streaming platforms Tencent and iQiyi. The order to formally be enacted on the 3rd September, after the 14-day notice period is over.
Legend of Deification Release Date Set
Enlight Pictures’ much anticipated follow up to last year’s smash hit Ne Zha has finally revealed its Chinese theatrical release date. Featuring the Chinese mythological figure Jiang Ziya, Legend of Deification will be released on China’s National Day, 1st October.
China Film Administration Pushing for More Sci-Fi
China Film Administration has released new guidelines together with China Association for Science and Technology to promote Chinese sci-fi films. The guidelines consist of 10 policies on the production, screening, special effects and other factors involved in developing sci-fi films.
Interstellar Rerun Is a Box Office Success
Six years after its initial release, Interstellar was released for a second time in China last Sunday and grossed over $2.85 mission in a single day. This is the highest ‘opening’ day gross since cinemas reopened in China.
Positive Feedback For Cinemas
According to recent Maoyan survey on cinema-goers in China, over 70% those who participated showed increased desire to go to the cinema compared to before the pandemic and over 80% were highly satisfied with the services provided by the cinemas. This survey shows an optimistic view on how the film industry in China in the near future.